An unusual number of explosions were heard in the Gaza Strip on Monday after the IDF detonated a large amount of infrastructure in the enclave.
The sound of the explosions was heard throughout the Negev as well as in the central region and Jerusalem. Residents in central Israel reported that their house windows were shaking from the force of the explosions.
However, a new IDF tactic employed during Operation Gideon's Chariots could explain why residents of Israel are hearing explosions from multiple kilometers away.
IDF tactics during Operation Gideon's Chariots
The IDF recently introduced a new tactic involving old armored personnel carriers (APCs) loaded with tons of explosives and operated remotely. These vehicles, known internally as “suicide APCs,” are sent toward designated targets and detonated in a controlled manner to minimize risk to soldiers.
According to security sources, each APC carries several tons of explosives. The resulting blasts produce shockwaves that can be heard over large distances, including throughout central Israel.
This method was adopted following the loss of an APC from the Golani Brigade during fighting in Shejaia, a neighborhood in Gaza City. Since then, the tactic has become a standard procedure to clear routes, demolish buildings, and destroy enemy infrastructure without exposing troops to direct danger.
The IDF began its renewed operations in Gaza on May 17 in order to clear Hamas out of Gaza and return the hostages.